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Who was the greater president, Truman or Johnson? Argue your case, referring to both in your answer. - Leaving Cert History - Question 1 - 2016
Question 1
Who was the greater president, Truman or Johnson? Argue your case, referring to both in your answer.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Who was the greater president, Truman or Johnson? Argue your case, referring to both in your answer. - Leaving Cert History - Question 1 - 2016
Step 1
Evaluate Truman's Presidency
Answer
Harry S. Truman served as the 33rd President of the United States from 1945 to 1953. His presidency is noted for several significant achievements, including the implementation of the Marshall Plan, which aided in the reconstruction of Europe after World War II, and the establishment of the Truman Doctrine, aimed at containing communism globally. Truman's decision to use atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki has been widely debated, but also signified a decisive end to the war in the Pacific. His leadership during the early stages of the Cold War established a firm stance against Soviet expansion.
Step 2
Evaluate Johnson's Presidency
Answer
Lyndon B. Johnson took office in 1963 after the assassination of John F. Kennedy and remained until 1969. He is best known for his Great Society programs, which aimed to eliminate poverty and racial injustice, significantly expanding federal government involvement in social welfare. His administration introduced landmark legislation, including the Civil Rights Act and the Medicare Act. However, Johnson's escalation of the Vietnam War ultimately overshadowed his domestic successes and led to widespread protests and societal division.
Step 3
Compare the Achievements of Both Presidents
Answer
When comparing the two presidents, it becomes evident that Truman's foreign policy decisions laid the foundation for the United States' role as a global leader in the post-war era, which has had lasting impacts. Conversely, Johnson's domestic policies addressed significant social issues but faced criticism due to the distractions and controversies of Vietnam. Each president's legacy reflects contrasting eras; Truman positioned the U.S. in a new global order, while Johnson attempted to reshape domestic society.
Step 4
Conclusion: Who Was Greater?
Answer
In concluding the argument of who was the greater president, it largely depends on the individual's value on foreign versus domestic policy impacts. Truman's decisive actions on the global front helped to establish a strong U.S. presence in world affairs, while Johnson’s ambitious domestic agenda aimed at societal reform showcased a different kind of leadership. Ultimately, one might argue that Truman’s foundational role in shaping U.S. foreign policy gives him an edge in terms of long-term significance.